“There is no curable disease in the universe which has cannot be effectively cured by śilājatu, [but only] when administered at the appropriate time, in combination with suitable herbs and by adopting the prescribed protocol”.
~ Caraka Samhitā, authoritative classical Ayurveda text
I’m Dylan Smith, an Ayurveda practitioner and educator, and in case you have not heard of Shilajit, it is one of Ayurveda’s most revered herbal substances.
This potent, mineral-rich resin sourced from rocky mountains is rapidly gaining popularity in Western supplement markets for its purported energising and rejuvenating effects. In this episode, we aim to disrupt the growing fad of shilajit as a dietary supplement in wellness communities.
We’ll challenge the notion that shilajit—prized in Ayurveda for its potent healing properties—can be casually consumed. Much of what’s sold is adulterated or harvested improperly, and often lacks proper purification. We’ll explore essential Ayurvedic principles like correct dosage, the right vehicle (anupāna), and a tailored diet (pathya) to balance shilajit’s intense qualities and ensure safety and efficacy. When these elements are neglected, shilajit’s benefits can be lost—or even become harmful—underscoring the need for proper guidance in its use.
My guests include Dr. Sumit Kesarkar, who has spent over two decades harvesting shilajit indigenously across Asia, and the renowned Raju family of Ayurvedic doctors: Vaidya J.R. Raju, Vaidya Pavani Raju, and Vaidya Harsha Raju. Together, we’ll offer practical insights on sourcing authenticity, safe usage, and time-tested ways to honour shilajit’s role as a powerful rasayana.
IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
Table of Contents
Shilajit’s Geological Formations and Origin
- Tectonic Pressure & Ancient Forests: Discover how prehistoric tropical forests, compressed over millions of years, transformed into this potent resin.
- Himalayan Essence: Understand why Shilajit is predominantly found in high-altitude regions, including the Himalayas and other remote mountain ranges across the globe.
- Varied Formation Theories: Learn about different explanations—including humification of ancient plant matter and even space dust—for Shilajit’s mysterious beginnings.
Understanding Shilajit as a Rasāyana (Longevity Elixir) in Ayurveda
- Classical Ayurvedic Texts: Explore references in the Caraka Samhitā and other authoritative treatises, underscoring Shilajit’s profound rejuvenating properties.
- Enhancing Vitality & Immunity: Discover how Shilajit, when used properly, can bolster both physical strength and deeper spiritual consciousness.
- Role of Rasāyanas: See why Rasāyanas are more than just supplements; they require a well-prepared body and correct administration to manifest their full benefits.
Shilajit’s Health Benefits & Debunking the Overemphasis on Mineral Content
- Cellular Energy & Cognitive Support: Gain insight into how compounds such as fulvic acid may boost ATP production and possibly aid in neuroprotection.
- Misleading Mineral Metrics: Learn why focusing solely on humic and fulvic acid percentages can distract from the deeper Ayurvedic wisdom of assimilation and synergy with other herbs.
- Real-World Applications: Explore anecdotal and research-backed stories of Shilajit supporting high-altitude climbers, enhancing fertility, and improving mental clarity.
Proper Purification of Shilajit (Not Common Knowledge)
- Shodhana (Purification) Processes: Hear about traditional Ayurvedic techniques like Surya Taphi—exposing Shilajit to sunlight and herbal decoctions to remove contaminants.
- Why It Matters: Understand how purification transforms Shilajit from a raw exudate into a substance that is safe and readily absorbed by the body.
- Common Misconceptions: Uncover why “pure” in a chemical sense differs from “purified” in the Ayurvedic sense, and the vital role of assimilation.
Prevalence of Adulteration, Unsustainable & Improper Harvesting Methods
- Commercial Demand & Fad Culture: See how the surge in Western supplement markets has led to corners being cut—mixing raw Shilajit with rocks or other compounds.
- Sourcing Challenges: Hear stories from Vaidyas who track goats in the mountains or rely on decades-old family collections to find genuine, high-quality Shilajit.
- Impact on Ecology & Tradition: Recognise how irresponsible harvesting can harm both local mountain environments and the integrity of Ayurvedic knowledge.
🏔️ Appropriate Dosage to Absorb the Benefits and Prevent Harm
- Tiny Amounts, Big Effect: Learn why even a rice-grain-sized portion can profoundly influence digestion, metabolism, and bodily tissues.
- Cumulative Poison Risk: Discover how using Shilajit incorrectly or in large amounts may “scrape” healthy tissue and destabilise the body.
- Expert Guidance: Hear recommendations from Vaidyas on gradually introducing Shilajit, assessing individual Agni (digestive fire), and adjusting over time.
Diet & Protocol to Adhere to While Consuming Shilajit
- Pathya & Apathya: Uncover the Ayurvedic principle of sticking to a compatible diet (e.g. warm, easily digestible foods) and avoiding harsh, heating items.
- Striking a Balance: Understand why heavy or cooling foods might oppose Shilajit’s properties, and how factors like timing and lifestyle also matter.
- Synergistic Vehicles (Anupāna): See how milk, ghee, or herbal decoctions can harness and deliver Shilajit’s potency more effectively.
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